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Decades of conflict persist in eastern DR Congo
The mineral-rich eastern regions of the Democratic Republic of Congo have been embroiled in violence for over three decades, fueled by armed groups vying for control of the area's vast resources. The latest surge in fighting began in early 2025, when the M23 rebel group launched a rapid offensive, capturing key cities and displacing thousands.
M23's rapid territorial gains
The M23, a rebel faction led by ethnic Tutsis, seized control of Goma in late January, a strategic city of over one million people near the Rwandan border. By February, the group had also taken Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu province, further expanding its hold on critical trade and mining hubs. The Congolese army and allied militias have continued to clash with the rebels, who have threatened to march on the capital, Kinshasa, 2,600 kilometers away.
Roots of the conflict
The M23 emerged in 2012, naming itself after a failed 2009 peace agreement intended to end decades of violence. The group claims it took up arms to protect Tutsi minorities, alleging that previous accords were never honored. After initial gains, including the 2012 capture of Goma, the M23 was pushed back by Congolese forces and a UN intervention brigade, only to reemerge in 2021, citing broken promises.
Rwanda's alleged role
International observers, including the UN, the US, and European governments, accuse Rwanda of backing the M23, with reports suggesting up to 4,000 Rwandan troops have fought alongside the rebels. Rwanda denies these claims, insisting its actions are defensive measures against the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), a Hutu militia active in eastern Congo that Kigali labels a genocidal threat.
"The FDLR wants to return to Rwanda to finish the job," said Rwandan government spokesperson Yolande Makolo, referring to the 1994 genocide that killed 800,000 people, mostly Tutsis.
Yolande Makolo, Rwandan Government Spokesperson
US-brokered peace deal raises doubts
In an effort to halt the violence, the leaders of Rwanda and DR Congo signed a US-mediated agreement in Washington. The deal calls for an end to state support for armed groups, including the FDLR, and a reduction of Rwanda's military presence. However, critics note the absence of the M23 from the negotiations, casting doubt on its effectiveness.
The agreement also includes economic provisions, urging both nations to "expand foreign trade and investment" in critical mineral supply chains. Reports suggest Kinshasa offered the US access to minerals in exchange for security guarantees, though Congolese officials deny any quid pro quo.
Regional forces struggle to contain violence
The UN peacekeeping mission, MONUSCO, has been active in Congo since 1999 but faces growing criticism for failing to protect civilians. With over 10,000 troops, only a fraction are authorized for offensive operations. Meanwhile, a Southern African Development Community (SADC) force deployed in 2023 withdrew in April after suffering heavy losses, including 14 South African soldiers killed in January.
Uncertain future for eastern Congo
Despite the Washington deal, fighting persists, and the M23 continues to control large swaths of territory. Separate peace talks mediated by Qatar offer a glimmer of hope, but the exclusion of key rebel factions from the US-brokered agreement leaves many questioning whether this latest effort will bring lasting stability to the region.
